How to upgrade to macOS Mojave

Learn how to download and install macOS Mojave, the latest version of the Mac operating system.

When you upgrade to macOS Mojave, you get a host of new features inspired by its most powerful users, but designed for everyone. Stay better focused on your work in Dark Mode. Automatically organize files using Stacks. Take more kinds of screenshots with less effort. Try four handy new built-in apps, and discover even more in the redesigned App Store. Now you can get more out of every click. Best of all, upgrading is free and easy.

Check compatibility

You can upgrade to macOS Mojave from OS X Mountain Lion or later on any of the following Mac models. Your Mac also needs at least 2GB of memory and 12.5GB of available storage space, or up to 18.5GB of storage space when upgrading from OS X Yosemite or earlier.

To find your Mac model, memory, storage space, and macOS version, choose About This Mac from the Apple () menu. If your Mac isn't compatible with macOS Mojave, the installer will let you know.

Make a backup

Before installing any upgrade, it’s a good idea to back up your Mac. Time Machine makes it simple, and other backup methods are also available. Learn how to back up your Mac.

Get connected

It takes time to download and install macOS, so make sure that you have a reliable Internet connection. If you're using a Mac notebook computer, plug it into AC power.

Download macOS Mojave

Use this link to open the macOS Mojave page on the App Store: Get macOS Mojave. Then click the Get button to download.

Begin installation

After downloading, the installer opens automatically.

Click Continue and follow the onscreen instructions. You might find it easiest to begin installation in the evening so that it can complete overnight, if needed.

If the installer asks for permission to install a helper tool, enter the administrator name and password that you use to log in to your Mac, then click Add Helper.

Allow installation to complete

Please allow installation to complete without putting your Mac to sleep or closing its lid. Your Mac might restart, show a progress bar, or show a blank screen several times as it installs both macOS and related updates to your Mac firmware.

Stay up to date

Or get macOS Mojave automatically

If you're using OS X El Capitan v10.11.5 or later and your App Store preferences are set to download newly available updates, Mojave will download conveniently in the background, making it even easier to upgrade. A notification will inform you when Mojave is ready to be installed. Click Install to get started.

Or dismiss the notification to install Mojave later. When you're ready to install, just open the file named Install macOS Mojave from your Applications folder. Or delete the installer by dragging it to the Trash.

Learn more

For the strongest security and latest features, upgrade to macOS Mojave. If you have hardware or software that isn't compatible with Mojave, you might be able to install an earlier macOS, such as High Sierra, Sierra, or El Capitan.